World Health Organization Quality Of Life Research Articles

Spirituality, religion, and personal beliefs in Brazilian adults with epilepsy.

To evaluate the relationship between S/R, demographic data, and clinical variables of Brazilian adult patients with epilepsy (PWE). The scores of the WHO Quality of Life for Assessment of Spirituality, Religion, and Personal Beliefs (WHOQOL-SRPB) were related to demographic and clinical aspects, the Spirituality Self-Rating Scale (SSRS), and the Spiritual/Religious Coping Scale (SRC) of 60 PWE. The mean age was 42.8y and 35 (58.3%) patients reported regular religious practice. In the WHOQOL-SRPB, greater inner peace and harmony were observed in women, greater wholeness and integration, hope and optimism in married patients, and greater spiritual connection in patients with religious practice. The use of polytherapy with antiseizure medication (ASM) was associated with lower spiritual connection, wholeness, integration, and S/N in the WHOQOL-SRPB. The higher seizure frequency was associated with lower spiritual connection. Facet scores and total scores of the WHOQOL-SRPB were significantly correlated with positive and negative coping and a greater perception of spiritual guidance. In the PWE, the use of S/R differed according to gender, marital status, and religious practice. Clinical variables influenced the perception of S/R, which differed according to the use of ASM, frequency, and type of epileptic seizures. The greater use of coping and spiritual guidance was associated with different facets of S/R and personal beliefs.

The Role of Mindfulness Decompression Therapy in Managing Acute Stress Disorder in Traumatic Fracture Patients.

Traumatic fractures are common orthopedic injuries with higher incidence globally, leading to acute stress disorder (ASD). Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the clinical outcomes of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) therapy in patients with traumatic bone fractures suffering from ASD. This study included 135 patients who underwent trauma and fracture treatment at The 305th Hospital of the PLA between August 2021 and August 2023. Based on their participation in MBSR therapy, they were categorized into a conventional group (n = 62) and a combined group (n = 73). We comparatively analyzed the ASD Scale (ASDS), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Self-Rating Sleep Status Scale (SRSS), and World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) measurement-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) scores between these two experimental groups. Furthermore, we assessed the incidence of ASD after treatment between these two groups. There were no significant differences in gender, age, body mass index, education, income, type of expense, trauma type, marital status, fracture site, diabetes status, hypertension status, and the pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, activities of daily living (i.e., modified Barthel index) score, and Social Support Rating Scale score between the two experimental groups (p > 0.05). Moreover, no significant differences were found in the prevalence of ASDS before treatment between these two groups (p > 0.05). However, after treatment, the ASDS score was significantly lower in the combined group than in the conventional group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, post-management analysis revealed that the incidence rate of ASD was 24.19% in the conventional group and 8.22% in the combined group. Moreover, the incidence of ASD was significantly lower in the combined group compared to the conventional group (p < 0.05). Before intervention, the difference in the SAS or SDS between patients was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). However, following treatment, the SAS and SDS scores of patients were significantly lower in the combined group than in the conventional group (p < 0.05). Similarly, after treatment, the SRSS scores of patients were substantially lower in the combined group than in the conventional group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the WHOQOL-BREF score of patients was significantly greater in the combined group than in the conventional group (p < 0.05). MBSR therapy can significantly alleviate ASD in trauma and fracture patients. Furthermore, this approach can alleviate the incidence of ASD and reduce anxiety, depression, and negative emotions in patients. These positive effects collectively improve sleep quality and overall well-being of patients.

Gender difference in metabolic syndrome and quality of life among elderly people in Noakhali, Bangladesh.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities that significantly heighten the risk of non-communicable diseases, affecting the quality of life (QOL) of millions, including the elderly. Hence, the study aims to assess the prevalence of MetS and its impact on QOL among elderly population, with a focus on gender differences. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 400 elderly participants sought care at Noakhali General Hospital, Noakhali, Bangladesh. MetS was diagnosed based on National Cholesterol Education Program's (NCEP) Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III criteria, while QOL was assessed using the brief version of the World Health Organization's QOL (WHOQOL-BREF) tool. Results revealed that over 70% of the elderly participants had MetS, with a significantly higher prevalence among females (79.2%) compared to males (66.7%). Gender disparities were also evident in QOL scores, with males reporting better outcomes across all domains-physical, psychological, social, and environmental. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that MetS negatively impacted the overall QOL for both genders, with more pronounced effects observed in females. The findings underscore the necessity of gender-specific interventions targeting MetS management to improve the overall well-being of the elderly.

Quality of Life among Patients with Myocardial Infarction Admitted in Government Head Quarters Hospital, Erode. Tamilnadu

Myocardial infarction (MI), colloquially known as "heart attack," is caused by decreased or complete cessation of blood flow to a portion of the myocardium. To determine the effectiveness of transitional care model on quality of life among patients with myocardial infarction. Pre- experimental design, where one group pretest and post-test design were used for this study. The study was conducted in Government headquarters hospital, Erode. 15 patients with myocardial infarction who are fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected by purposive sampling technique. The study was conducted with health education on transitional care model on quality of life once a day for 7 days. WHO QOL tool was used to assess the quality of life. Pretest mean score was (52.40±8.89), which is 70% where as in post-test mean score was (45.93±5.91) which is 61%, showing the difference of 9 the paired ‘t’ value was 2.59, when compared to table values (0.05) it was high. Significant association was found between transitional care model on quality of life and history of smoking. The nursing intervention was highly effective on transitional care model on quality of life among patients with myocardial infarction.

High sleep reactivity in shift workers is associated with increased sleep disturbance, mood problems, and reduced quality of life.

Shift work disrupts circadian rhythms, causing sleep and mood problems. Sleep reactivity-the sensitivity of sleep to stress-may affect how shift workers cope with these disruptions. This study investigated the relationship between sleep reactivity and shift work, exploring associations between sleep reactivity and sleep disturbance, mood symptoms, and quality of life in shift workers. In a cross-sectional design, 132 participants (79 shift workers and 53 controls) were assessed using the Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test (FIRST), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL). We compared the self-reported measurements between shift workers and controls. Two-way ANOVA was performed to explore the interaction effects between shift work and sleep reactivity on sleep, mood parameters, and quality of life. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with sleep, mood, and quality of life among shift workers. Shift workers scored higher on ISI and BDI compared to controls. Two-way ANOVA revealed an interaction effect between shift work and sleep reactivity on WHOQOL. Regression analysis indicated that high sleep reactivity was associated with higher ISI, BDI, BAI, and lower WHOQOL among shift workers. Sleep reactivity significantly affected shift worker's quality of life. Our findings indicate that high sleep reactivity in shift workers was associated with increased sleep disturbance, mood problems, and decreased quality of life, implying that sleep reactivity may predict shift work tolerance.

An Online Mindfulness-based Intervention Decreases Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in Indian Healthcare Providers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic contributed enormously to the psychosocial distress of Indian healthcare providers. The mental well-being of the healthcare community remains an underappreciated priority in India. The primary objective was to observe the results of an online brief mindfulness-based intervention on stress, anxiety, and depression, and the secondary objective was to examine its effects on mindfulness characteristics and World health Organization (WHO) quality of life among Indian healthcare providers during pandemic times. The study population was randomized into two groups to attend either "mindfulness" sessions or "usual care" sessions. The outcome variables were stress (using the perceived stress scale: PSS), anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder scores: GAD7), depression (patient health questionnaire: PHQ9), mindfulness characteristics (Freiburg mindfulness inventory: FMI), and quality of life (WHO-QOL100). These variables were recorded pre- and postprogram. Statistical analysis included the use of unpaired and paired t -tests. The postsession mean scores in the "mindfulness" group compared to the "usual care" group decreased significantly in PSS, GAD7, and PHQ9, with p < 0.0001, p = 0.0102, and p = 0.0462, respectively. There was an increase in FMI with p < 0.0001 and in WHO-QOL domains 1, 2, and 4, with p = 0.0008, p < 0.0001, and p = 0.0194, respectively. The online brief mindfulness-based intervention created a positive effect on stress, anxiety, and depression. The postprogram mindfulness characteristics and WHO quality of life also improved in Indian healthcare providers during pandemic times. Further large-scale research will be needed to support these beneficial effects.

Effect of caloric restriction with probiotic supplementation on body composition, quality of life, and psychobiological factors of obese men: A randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Obesity is a chronic disease characterized by an excess of fat mass. It is accompanied by a low-grade chronic systemic inflammation state that leads to numerous health disorders. To counteract this scenario, dietary-derived caloric restriction (CR) is the principal intervention for weight loss. Furthermore, probiotic supplementation has gained attention as a co-intervention to optimize weight loss and other health-related factors. As such, we aimed to verify the effect of CR with probiotic supplementation on the body composition, quality of life, sleep quality, anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms of adult men living with obesity. The study is called the Clinical Study of Obesity and Intestinal Microbiota (ECOMI). It is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving two parallel groups of stable-weight adult men living with obesity. The inclusion criteria were male individuals aged 25-44 years, with body mass index (BMI) ranging from 30.0 to 39.99kg/m2, and stable body mass over the preceding three months. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: Caloric Restriction with Probiotic (CRPRO) and Caloric Restriction with Placebo (CRPLA). The achieved CR was 30% of the total daily energy expenditure. Macronutrients were distributed as 50% carbohydrates, 30% lipids, and 20% proteins. Probiotic supplementation was carried out using two sachets/day of 1g, containing 1×109 Colony Forming Units (CFU) of each strain: Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001, Lactobacillus paracasei Lpc-37 and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, totaling 8 billion CFU/day. CR and probiotic (or placebo) supplementation intervention lasted 12 weeks. Body composition and psychobiological-related parameters (e.g., sleep, anxiety, stress, and depression) were assessed at baseline and following 12 weeks of intervention. Data are presented as mean and 95% confidence interval (CI) and mean difference (MD). The present study applied the per protocol analysis. Thirty-three subjects were evaluated and randomized, but only data from 25 (CRPLA n=12 vs CRPRO n=13) participants were included in the final analysis. We verified that CR resulted in weight loss (p<0.001; η2ρ=0.754) in both CRPLA (MD:-6.30kg; p<0.001) and CRPRO (MD:-5.97kg; p<0.001), without differences between groups (p=0.823; η2ρ=0.002). Moreover, both CRPLA (MD:-4.83kg; p<0.001) and CRPRO (MD:-5.20kg; p<0.001) decreased body fat without difference between groups (p=0.712; η2ρ=0.006). Regarding obesity-related problems, only the corporeality dimension (p<0.001; η2ρ=0.474) in both CRPLA (p=0.028) and CRPRO (p=0.039) improved. World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQoL)-related dimensions were improved for perception (p<0.001; η2ρ=0.630), satisfaction (p<0.001; η2ρ=0.778), and psychological domain (p<0.001; η2ρ=0.567), without differences between groups. Moreover, sleep quality (p<0.001; η2ρ=0.522) improved in both groups, without differences between groups. Finally, anxiety (p=0.013; η2ρ=0.250) and depression (p=0.003; η2ρ=0.345) scores assessed via the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) (p<0.001; η2ρ=0.448) improved only in the CRPRO group. Probiotic supplementation did not enhance the effects of caloric restriction on body composition, QoL-, or sleep-related parameters. However, anxiety and depressive symptoms improved only in the CRPRO group, despite no differences between groups after 12 weeks. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Prediction of functional remission in patients with schizophrenia after antipsychotic discontinuation (FURSAD): protocol for a real-world case-control study

IntroductionAlthough maintenance treatment is recommended for the prevention of relapse, in real-world settings, a subset of patients discontinue antipsychotics while having a good prognosis. The prediction of functional remission in...

Effectiveness of Rajyoga meditation on cognitive functions and quality of life in young adults with internet addiction

Objectives: Recently, an increasing trend in the prevalence of internet addiction (IA) has been seen worldwide. IA is found to be associated with impaired cognitive functions, emotional dysregulations and psychological morbidity, warranting the need for appropriate preventive and curative interventional modalities. Nonpharmacological interventions such as meditation may help in positively modifying internet behaviour and combatting its adverse effects on cognitive functions and psycho-social health. The purpose of the study was to assess the influence of Rajyoga meditation (RYM) on cognition and quality of life (QOL) in young adults with IA. Materials and Methods: In the present prospective interventional study, a total of 40 young adults with IA were divided equally into two groups: Control and meditation. Subjects in the meditation group practised RYM for 20 min/day, daily for 8 weeks. Control group subjects received no intervention. Assessments were conducted thrice at the following time points: Before intervention (baseline), after 1 week (T1) and 8 (T2) weeks of intervention. Various assessment tools such as Young’s 20-Item IA Test (YIAT), World Health Organization QOL brief (WHOQOL-Bref) and Montreal cognitive assessment (MOCA) questionnaires were utilised. The statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25.0 (IBM Corp). Results: Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. The results revealed significant (P &lt; 0.001) main effects of time for YIAT and MOCA. This effect was further qualified by a significant interaction between time and group for YIAT (P &lt; 0.001). The results further highlighted significant between groups effects in mean scores of YIAT, MOCA (P &lt; 0.01) and WHOQOL-Bref domains 2, 4 (P &lt; 0.01) and domain 3 (P &lt; 0.05) after 8 weeks of intervention. Within the meditation group, a significant increase in mean scores of both MOCA (P &lt; 0.01) and WHOQOL-Bref (P &lt; 0.05) and a significant decrease in mean YIAT (P &lt; 0.001) scores were observed after 8 weeks of intervention. Conclusion: RYM decreased the severity of IA as indexed by YIAT and improved the overall cognitive function and QOL in young adults with IA, as evidenced by MOCA and WHOQOL-Bref, respectively. These findings indicate that RYM was effective in ameliorating the negative effects of IA and can serve as a useful preventive and curative non-pharmacological interventional modality for promoting cognitive and psycho-social well-being in subjects with IA disorder.

An assessment of quality of life in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis

Background and aimAssessment of quality of life in ESRD patients. The quality of life of the patients may be greatly reduced because it necessitates lifelong treatment in the form of renal replacement therapy or hemodialysis. Therefore, the main goal of the study is to evaluate the QOL (quality of life) of patients receiving hemodialysis using WHO QOL criteria.MethodsAt the Dr. B. R. AMCH dialysis unit, a cross-sectional descriptive study involving (n = 134) patients (of whom n = 34 gave negative consent) was carried out over the course of 3 years, from September 10, 2018, to September 10, 2021.ConclusionWHO QOL is a trustworthy tool for assessing QOL in ESRD patients. The research indicates that the progression of the illness has a negative impact on both mental and physical health, as well as causing financial strain and strained relationships with others.

Efficacy of ayurveda medications, Brahmi vati and Saraswatarista, in generalized anxiety disorder- a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundAyurvedic intervention (Brahmi Vati with Saraswatarista) is explored for their possible role in management of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), a common psychiatric disorder. ObjectiveThe objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of Brahmi Vati and Saraswatarista in GAD. MethodsStudy is a randomized controlled clinical trial. Patients (n = 50) of GAD (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5 criteria), 18–60 years of age, either sex participated in the study. Participants were randomly divided into two groups. Group A, received escitalopram 10 mg/day for first 10 days followed by 20 mg/day for next 50 days. Group B, received Ayurvedic intervention (Brahmi Vati 500 mg thrice a day (TID) and Saraswatarista 10 ml TID) for 60 days. Assessments were with clinical parameters like Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS), GAD 7 scale (GAD 7), Beck Depression Inventory scale (BDI), Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), WHO Quality of Life- BREF (WHOQOL-BREF), Clinical Global Improvement scale (CGI) and UKU-Side effect scale (UKU). These clinical assessments were measured on every 15th day during the intervention. Haemoglobin, liver function test (LFT), serum creatinine, serum urea were assessed before and after the study. ResultsStudy results indicate that both the groups were comparable in HARS, GAD7, BDI, WHOQOL-Bref and CGI-Severity. Group B was better in PSQI (standard mean difference = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.28, 1.43), ESS (standard mean difference = 1.42, 95% CI: 0.78, 2.02), CGI [global improvement (standard mean difference = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.23,1.28) and efficacy index (standard mean difference = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.37,1.54)] and had better adverse events profile (standard mean difference = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.21, 1.36). Both the groups had a good safety profile assessed through liver and renal profiles. ConclusionAyurveda interventions has additional advantages likes improvements in sleep profile, lesser adverse events and better global improvement in management of GAD.CTRI Registration Number is CTRI/2020/09/027750.

Efficacy of Brahmi vati and Aswagandharista (Ayurvedamedication) in major depressive disorder: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundRole of Ayurveda medications in the management of Major depressive disorder (MDD) is explored. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of Brahmi vati and Aswagandarista in the management of MDD. MethodsStudy was a Randomized, Controlled, parallel group comparative clinical trial. Fifty patients meeting the MDD (DSM V) diagnostic criteria from teaching hospital were recruited in the study. They were divided in two 2 groups. Control group were administered with Escitalopram 10 mg twice a day. Ayurveda group were intervened with tablet Brahmi vati 500 mg thrice a day and Liquid Aswagandarista 10 ml thrice a day. Interventions were for 60 days. Assessments were done on every 15th day. Assessments criteria included Hamilton Depression Rating scale (HDRS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating scale (HARS), UKU Side effect scale (UKU), Brief Psychotic Rating Scale (BPRS), WHO quality of life -BREF (WHOQOL-BREF), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Clinical Global Impression scales (CGI) were assessed at all the time points. Blood parameters like Haemoglobin, Serum creatinine and Liver function tests were evaluated at pre and post study. ResultsBetween group comparison showed significant improvements in WHOQOL-Bref (p < 0.001), UKU (p = 0.04) favouring Ayurveda group and PSQI (p = 0.02) improvements in control group. Improvements in other parameters were comparable. Within group assessment showed significant (p < 0.001) improvement in HDRS, HARS, BPRS, CGI-S, CGI-GI in both the groups. Liver function tests and serum creatines were within normative limits. ConclusionAyurveda medications produced significant improvements comparable to escitalopram with additional advantages in quality of life and side effects profile.

Quality of life and spiritual needs of patients diagnosed with cancer in a tertiary hospital in southwestern Nigeria

ObjectiveIn Africa, cancer is considered a death sentence. Its impact can be debilitating for the patient and those who care for them. This study therefore assessed the spiritual needs and Quality of life of Cancer patients in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. MethodsThis study utilized a cross-sectional descriptive design. We systematically recruited 302 cancer patients who visited the cancer registry and outpatient departments. A standardized and validated Spiritual needs questionnaire (SpNQ) and WHO Quality of Life (WHOQL) were used to collect data. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 23 with a significance level set at p < 0.05. ResultsThe preponderance cancer among respondents was breast cancer 146 (48.4%) followed by prostate cancer 41 (13.6%). Most of the respondents admitted having “strong” spiritual needs. Categorization of the spiritual need score was below average in 20% of the respondents which indicated those with low spiritual needs and the majority 241 (79.8%) of the patients had high spiritual needs. Most respondents had poor quality of life in all four domains. The spiritual care needs of respondents were significantly associated with the quality of life of the respondents particularly in the psychological domain (p = 0.040) and social domain (p = 0.005). ConclusionThis study revealed high spiritual needs and poor quality of life among cancer patients. Healthcare practitioners should provide for the spiritual needs of cancer patients to enhance their quality of life.

“Quality of life of high risk pregnant mothers residing in a rural community in Karnataka - A cross sectional study”

BackgroundHigh-risk pregnancies are defined by complications that increase the likelihood of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. In India, over 30 % of pregnancies are classified as high risk, contributing significantly to perinatal mortality if not managed appropriately. Pregnancy involves various physiological, physical, and emotional changes that can affect a woman's perception of her quality of life. In highrisk pregnancies, these natural changes may lead to more significant adverse outcomes for mother and the fetus. Objectives1. To identify the risk factors associated with high risk pregnancy. 2. To assess the quality of life among pregnant ladies attending attending a Taluk hospital. MethodsA cross sectional study was conducted at the obstetric OPD in Karkala taluk hospital. At an absolute error of 8 % and 95 % confidence interval the minimum sample size was calculated to be 80. Through consecutive sampling,the study subjects were selected. Dutta and Das scoring and WHO QoL BREF questionnaire were used to identify the high risk pregnancy and QOL of the pregnant ladies respectively. ResultsAmong the pregnant ladies who participated,18.8 % were high risk. The most common risk factors identified among them were previous abortion, caesarean section, anemia and bleeding PV There was significant association between quality of life and high risk pregnancy. 93.8 % of high risk pregnant ladies,66.7 % of moderate risk pregnant ladies and 12%of low risk pregnant ladies were having poor quality of life respectively. ConclusionHigh-risk pregnancies require specialized attention and comprehensive screening of physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors domains of quality of life.

The Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Quality of Life in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Their Families Using Insulin Infusion Pumps

Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on the quality of life (QOL) of children with type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and their families, specifically focusing on the effects of insulin infusion pumps. We also aimed to identify changes in both children's and parents' QOL during the pandemic period. Methods: This study utilized the KINDL (KINDer Lebensqualitätsfragebogen: Children’s QOL) questionnaire for the children, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-BREF Turkish Version (TR) (WHO-QOL-BREF-TR) scale for their parents. Data were collected using Google Forms, with assessments performed before and during the pandemic. Results: The study included 61 participants, 38 of whom were female (62.3%), with a mean age of 12.7±2.9 years and a mean diabetes duration of 6.4±2.5 years. Pre-pandemic KINDL scores for "emotional health" and "school" were significantly higher than those during the pandemic (p=0.022 and p=0.002, respectively). Surprisingly, HbA1c levels improved during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic values (p

Evaluation of comparative efficacy of Celastrus paniculatus (Jyotishmati) capsule versus sertraline capsule in the management of Chittodvega (generalized anxiety disorder): protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (Chittodvega) is one among many types of mental disorders explained in Ayurveda. It can be defined as a Chitta (mind) + Udvega (anxiety)= Chittodvega- Anxious status of a mind. Celastrus paniculatus also known as Jyotishmati stimulates and improves the digestive fire and metabolism at a cellular level (Jatharagni and Majja dhatwagni). It can be correlated to GAD. GAD is characterized by feelings of threat, restlessness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and tension, and symptoms such as palpitations, dry mouth, and sweating. It affects women more frequently than men and prevalence rates are high in midlife (prevalence in females over age 35: 10%) and older subjects. In modern medicine the first-line psychological and pharmaceutical treatments are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (SNRIs). Aim and objectives To evaluate the comparative efficacy of Jyotishmati versus sertraline in the management of Chittodvega. Methods In this randomized active controlled double blind equivalence trial a total of 70 patients will be enrolled and divided into two equal groups. Patients between 20–50 years age of either gender having symptoms of Chittodvega and a Hamilton anxiety rating (HAM-A) scale score less than 24 (i.e., mild to moderate) will be selected for the study. In Group A, sertraline capsules 25 mg for first 7 days and then dose increased to 50 mg at bedtime for next 53 days and in Group B Jyotishmati Capsules 500 mg will be given twice a day after food with water for 60 days. Result and observation The patients will be assessed on the HAM-A scale, serum cortisol and WHO Quality of Life on day 0, 30, 60 and 90 and data will be analyzed using paired and unpaired t-tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables to evaluate whether treatments are equivalent. Trial registration CTRI No. REF/2023/07/069880 Date – 15/09/2023

PROFILE OF PATIENTS WITH SLEEP COMPLAINTS IN A SECONDARY CARE HEALTH INSTITUTION IN THE CITY OF CAMPINAS, SÃO PAULO STATE

Objective: We report data of the profile of patients who sought our outpatient clinic for sleep disorders of the Faculty of Medicine of São Leopoldo Mandic Medical School, during the Week of Sleep, that took place in March, 2022. Methods: All participants responded to a form designed by the researcher, as well as to commonly used questionnaires in Sleep Research, such as the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the STOP-BANG questionnaire for screening of apnea, and the WHO Quality of Life abbreviated questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF). Results: 30 patients were evaluated, mean age 51.8 (± 14), 63% women. Main complaints were insomnia (63%), snore/apnea (23%) and excessive daytime sleepiness (10%). ESS scores were significantly higher among men, daytime nappers and alarm clock users. ISI scores were importantly associated with those who woke 2 or more times per night, while physically active, non-obese, normotensive people and those with Modified Mallampatti (MM) classes I and II scored significantly less in STOP-BANG. Obese, MM classes III-IV and people with abnormal cervical and abdominal circumferences performed markedly worse in Domain 1, while women, older people and alarm clock users went worse in Domain 4 of WHOQOL-BREF. Discussion: One or more sleep disturbances were detected in all seekers of Sleep Care, emphasizing the importance of these types of action.

Quality of life and psychopathology in different COVID-19 pandemic periods: A longitudinal study.

Τhe aim of this longitudinal study was to investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and quality of life (QoL) of the general population in the region of Attica, Greece, during the third year of the pandemic (2022), and tο compare the findings with those of a survey conducted in the first year (2020). Our sample consisted of 130 participants and the study was conducted through phone interviews. The instruments used were: the World Health Organisation QoL instrument, the Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale, the Body Vigilance Scale, the Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, as well as socio-demographic data and questions on stressors related to COVID-19. The findings of the study were the following: (1) Regarding the comparison of the variables between the first and the third year of the pandemic in the total sample: a) In comparison to the first year, in the third year we observed a significant decrease in negative feelings caused by the pandemic; b) obsessive compulsive (OC) and hypochondriacal symptomatology were significantly reduced, and the fact that participants felt safe following vaccination had a statistically significant effect on this decrease; c) job insecurity was aggravated; d) QoL remained low and even deteriorated in the Environment domain; f) no changes were found in Depression-Stress. (2) Regarding participants who were contaminated, there was a significant increase in negative feelings during the third year of the pandemic. Moreover, QoL decreased in the Physical, Psychological health, Environment domains, as well as in OC symptomatology. (3) Depression-Stress, hypochondriacal symptomatology, and the case of contamination were the predominant factors negatively associated with the dependent variables of QoL. (4) Vaccination was found to contribute to high levels of the QoL Environment domain score. (5) Anxiety, hypochondriacal symptomatology, fear of contamination, and negative feelings seemed to predict OC symptomatology. (6) The most vulnerable groups, in terms of QoL and mental health, were men, older and lower-educated people. Overall, it was found that the negative psychosocial impact of the pandemic persisted, especially on people who had fallen ill during the third year of the pandemic. Therefore, targeted psychotherapeutic interventions should be implemented, especially for those who got infected.

Effects of Yogic Practices Synchronized With Bandha and Kumbhaka on Biological and Psychological Factors of Aging in COVID-19-Recovered Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and objectives Accelerated biological aging and age-associated diseases are strong risk factors for mortality and morbidity. Oxidative stress (OS) and anemia are possible pathophysiological causes of the various organ dysfunctions observed during COVID-19, decreasing health and life span.Ancient Yogic science seems to optimize all dimensions of human existence. As mentioned in ancient Yogic scriptures and documented in various studies, Yoga has been found to control accelerated biological aging and associated diseases. The study's objective was to authenticate and look into the effect of Yogic practices specifically synchronized with Kumbhaka and Bandha on markers of accelerated aging. Methods This randomized controlled trial was carried out in Mahendergarh city of Haryana on COVID-19-recovered adults aged between 30 and 60 years; 126 adults were randomized into two groups from Mahendergarh city: a control group (CG), 61 adults, and the experimental group (EG), 65 adults. During the final analysis, 56 adults in the experimental groupreceived Yogic intervention for 120 days, and 61 adults remained the same in the control group during the intervention period. Consenting participants were randomized using computer-generated block randomization. The Yogic intervention was done 60 minutes/day five days a week for six months. Both groups' laboratory tests were carried out, which included malondialdehyde (MDA) level, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione (GSH) levels, hemoglobin (Hgb) level, body mass index (BMI), mental stress (perceived stress), and quality of life (QOL), which were estimated before and after the Yogic intervention. Results Yoga practice for 120 days (three mandals) in the experimental group has significantly reduced MDA level (p = 0.03) and perceived stress level (Perceived StressScale {PSS}) (p = 0.047), and BMI decreased in the Yoga group from 24.2 ± 4.8 to 23.6 ± 4.8, but no significant difference was observed in the values of BMI (p = 0.54).Improved antioxidant levels such as GSH level (p = 0.02), serum ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)/TAC activity (p = 0.04), and Hgb level (p = 0.02) were reported; with this, improved quality of life, World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) Physical (p = 0.03), WHOQOL Psychological (p = 0.02), WHOQOL Social (p = 0.04), and WHOQOL Environment (p = 0.006), has been observed in the experimental group, whereas in the control group, we observed no significant difference in MDA level (p = 0.38), GSH level (p = 0.97), TAC level (p = 0.96), Hgb level (p = 1), BMI (p = 0.85), PSS (p = 0.83), and quality of life, WHOQOL Physical (p = 0.37), WHOQOL Psychological (p = 0.88), WHOQOL Social (p = 0.96), and WHOQOL Environment (p = 0.32). Conclusion These findings suggest that Yoga synchronized with Kumbhaka and Bandha may be a useful strategy for lowering oxidative stressand mental stressand improving antioxidant defense, hemoglobin level, and overall quality of life in COVID-19-recovered people, which might help reverse the biological decline of the human body and mind.The results of this study show that Yoga may break the link between old age and ill health. Hence, Yoga (with Bandha and Kumbhaka)may bethe most reproducible way to extend the life span of humans, as mentioned in ancient Yogic scriptures.

Relationship Between Subjectively Assessed Physical Activity (GPAQ) and Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) of Aging Employees in JIPMER, Puducherry: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study.

Physical activity appears to be one of the most important strategies for preventing physical and mental disorders. Regular physical activity (PA) may prolong life and appears to be a preventative measure against genetic and molecular aging. To find the relationship between aging adults' quality of life (QOL) and PA. This cross-sectional analytical study included administrative staff members of Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry. QOL and PA were monitored and assessed using questionnaires (Global Physical Activity Questionnaire [GPAQ] and World Health Organization QOL Brief Version [WHOQOL-BREF]). Statistical analysis was performed with STATA version 14. For continuous variables, descriptive statistics were presented as means and standard deviations (SDs), while categorical variables were given as percentages. The analysis of multivariate linear regression was performed. P < 0.05 was used as the significance level. A total of 66 subjects were examined, and their mean age was 54.93 (SD 3.26) years. The findings indicated that there were no less-active participants, and that people over the age of 50 were more likely to engage in moderate or vigorous PA. The WHOQOL-BREF findings revealed that people had higher QOL. There was no significant link between WHOQOL-BREF dimensions and GPAQ when the effect of PA patterns on QOL was examined using multivariate linear regression analysis, which was adjusted for covariates such as body mass index and waist circumference. The amount of physical activity among aging population may differ in different dimensions of QOL.